I've been itching to get a stair stepper for a long time, but hesitant to spend the money because after doing some research I realized these smaller machines can get quite pricey. I pored over reviews for weeks, looking at different types of machines, before I settled on this one mainly because of the high number of positive reviews and the price.
I will definitely update my review if I run into problems or no longer become satisfied with this product. So far, I LOVE this thing! It's small and light enough to move around easily, but it still very sturdy (I weigh 150 pounds). I wondered if balance would be an issue with this machine, but it's not at all—and I'm a shut-in who is currently taking pain medication, woo! It's overall height is about 9 inches with the pedals evened out, so it's easy to stow it under something to get it out of the way.
I try to use this as often as possible during the day if even for just a short time, and it gives me a satisfying workout. Personally, I feel like walking isn't enough of a workout, but running is too high-impact, which is why I like stair machines. Another reviewer mentioned the short stride of the machine; it is true that the stepping is not a "big" movement, meaning you don't have to stretch your legs far to reach the pinnacle either way. I would say it's the equivalent of stepping up small stairs, i.e. 6 inches or so high. This doesn't bother me at all, in fact, I feel like I experience more of a burn with this smaller range of motion. Also the stepping motion has a slight "twist"; as another reviewer mentioned it's almost like a skating motion. I love this, it really gives my thighs a good workout! If I use this machine for longer than 20 minutes I really start to feel the intensity and sweat a bit. It is possible to step quickly and really push yourself, so I think you can get a decent higher-impact workout out of this stepper.
I'm very happy with this machine so far! I was looking for something affordable and easy to stow away (I hate the look of equipment and our house is small) that gives me the opportunity for a decently challenging workout, and this has delivered on all three counts.